Rich Rodriguez Makes Bold Prediction About Veteran WR

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Unwilling to tip his hand at all for months, WVU head coach Rich Rodriguez is now willing to make a prediction about a key player in his offense. And even though he still hasn’t released a depth chart, it’s clear Rodriguez expects big things from wide receiver Jaden Bray.

“I think he’s going to be poised for a really good year,” offered Rodriguez about Bray following one of the final fall camp practices. Rodriguez even added that he’s been “really impressed” with Bray whenever he tests his receivers.

Bray has tested either No. 1 or No. 2 when up against his fellow Mountaineers in drills or any metrics they use to evaluate players.

The first sign of Rodriguez’s confidence in Bray came when he brought him to the Big 12 Media Days event in July. Of course, this came after deciding to keep the college football veteran around in the first place.

Bray, who transferred to WVU ahead of the 2024 season, was in this same spot one year ago – a player viewed as a big piece for the offense. But unfortunately for the Oklahoma native, his first season as a Mountaineer was cut short – he caught just two passes for 88 yards.

WVSN photo by Ed Thompson

Now motivated to end his career on a high note, Bray is doing exactly what he needs to do to make that happen – impress his new head coach.

West Virginia will certainly need Bray to be productive on the field, but his presence alone could open up space for playmakers like projected WR1 Cam Vaughn. That’s a role he’s already shown he can excel in, doing so for an Oklahoma State team that reached the Big 12 Championship Game in 2023.

Bray made 30 receptions for 382 yards and scored two touchdowns in 10 games for the Cowboys two years ago.

Find more coverage of Jaden Bray at WV Sports Now.